Senior Estimator - Commercial Construction - Columbus

Senior Estimator

A premier, industry-leading General Contractor and Design-Build partner has built a reputation for delivering high-impact construction solutions that help shape communities across Ohio. Serving a diverse mix of public and private sector clients, they bring expertise, innovation, and craftsmanship to every phase of the construction process. Their portfolio encompasses everything from complex interior renovations and tenant improvements to large-scale ground-up commercial, institutional, healthcare, education, and municipal projects. With decades of industry experience and a commitment to excellence, the company has established itself as a trusted partner for owners seeking a builder capable of managing challenging projects while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and client service.

The Senior Estimator will be responsible for:

• Work directly with the Head of Preconstruction to develop detailed cost estimates for projects of varying size and complexity.
• Lead and support the full estimating process from initial concept through final bid submission.
• Compile and maintain comprehensive bidder lists in collaboration with Project Managers.
• Solicit, review, and level subcontractor and supplier bids to ensure scope coverage and competitiveness.
• Maintain and regularly update the bid log, providing clear status reports to leadership.
• Analyze and interpret drawings, specifications, and other project documents to identify scope requirements.
• Identify potential risks, gaps, and opportunities within bid documents and proactively address them.
• Interact directly with project owners, architects, and consultants as required.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits, and client presentations with partners and project teams.
• Provide bi-weekly (or more frequent) project updates to internal stakeholders and leadership.
• Collaborate closely with owners for pre-bid walkthroughs, value engineering, and proposal development.
• Prepare comprehensive bid packages, including scope narratives, clarifications, and assumptions.
• Develop and present conceptual estimates, budgets, and cost models during early project phases.
• Communicate and build strong relationships with subcontractors and component suppliers (concrete, steel, joist, precast, masonry, etc.).
• Ensure all estimates align with company standards, project goals, and client expectations.
• Assist in negotiating contracts, scopes, and pricing with subcontractors and vendors.
• Support project turnover meetings to ensure a smooth handoff from preconstruction to operations.
• Track historical cost data and contribute to improving estimating tools and processes.
• Stay current on market conditions, pricing trends, and material cost fluctuations.
• Participate in continuous process improvement initiatives within the preconstruction team.

The successful Senior Estimator will have:

• Bachelor's Degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction.
• Proven ability to quickly and accurately review plans, specifications, and evaluate drawings.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and industry best practices.
• Experience preparing detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates across multiple scopes.
• Familiarity with local jurisdictions, building codes, permitting, and plan review processes a plus.
• Experience working with subcontractors and vendors to obtain competitive pricing.
• Ability to analyze bid documents, identify scope gaps, and manage risk proactively.
• Proficiency in estimating software and tools (e.g., Bluebeam, Procore, PlanSwift, or similar).
• Strong financial acumen, including cost analysis, budgeting, and value engineering.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent attention to detail with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to think critically under pressure.
• Excellent oral, written, and presentation communication skills.
• Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across teams and stakeholders.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to preconstruction planning and strategy.
• High level of professionalism and commitment to quality and accuracy.

The Senior Estimator will be offered:

• Competitive base salary up to $150,000, commensurate with experience.
• Individual performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Company-wide profit sharing and annual bonus incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, health insurance coverage.
• Dental insurance benefits.
• Vision insurance benefits.
• Life and disability insurance options.
• 3+ weeks of paid time off, plus company-recognized holidays and sick days.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Company-provided cell phone, iPad, and laptop/computer.
• Vehicle allowance or mileage reimbursement (if applicable).
• Paid parental leave, including both maternity and paternity leave.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and career growth.
• Exposure to high-profile and diverse commercial construction projects.
• A collaborative, supportive, and team-oriented company culture.
• Strong leadership and mentorship from experienced industry professionals.
• Clear path for advancement within a growing organization.
• Work-life balance with a team that values flexibility and respect for personal time.